Iran's central bank unveils the Iran Wallet service for payments without an internet connection

The Central Bank of Iran unveiled a service called Iran Wallet on Monday 3 August 2026 (12 Mordad 1405), a platform designed to remove the dependence of everyday payments on an internet connection by running transactions through USSD dial codes alone.

According to the Mehr news agency, registration requires no app installation and begins by dialling a dedicated code from a mobile phone, with the main condition for enrolment being that the national identity number matches ownership of the SIM card, a requirement set to meet the central bank's security rules. Users top up the wallet through cards on the Shetab network and can transfer money, view their balance in real time, move funds back to a linked bank account, and buy from selected shops across the country both in person and remotely. Payment for bread at state subsidised bakeries is also supported, and a confirmation text message is sent after each transaction.

According to the report, the service is intended above all as an alternative for everyday banking in areas with weak internet coverage or at times when access to the global network is disrupted.